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Global surveillance, prevention and control of chronic respiratory diseases: a comprehensive approach

Chronic respiratory diseases, such as asthma and
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, kill more than
four million people every year and affect hundreds
of millions more. These diseases erode the health
and well-being of the patients and have a negative
impact on families and societies. Women and
children are particularly vulnerable, especially those
in low and middle income countries, where they are
exposed on a daily basis to indoor air pollution from
solid fuels for cooking and heating. In high income
countries, tobacco is the most important risk factor
for chronic respiratory diseases, and in some of
these countries, tobacco use among women and
young people is still increasing.

Global Surveillance, prevention and control of chronic respiratory diseases:
a comprehensive approach raises awareness of the huge impact of chronic
respiratory diseases worldwide, and highlights the risk factors as well as ways
to prevent and treat these diseases.

This publication will serve not only as a source of information, but also as inspiration to those who want to join the battle against chronic respiratory
diseases. By addressing this global epidemic, much suffering can be avoided and millions of lives can be saved.